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Dark Vows Duet #2
The Widow Maker
He took everything from me, and he isn’t done yet.
Heath used me for his own dark agenda.
Now, I’m back with the man who wants to destroy me, with no chance of breaking free.
Abused, beaten and destroyed, I’m done running.
But I’ll be damned before I accept my fate.
Because I’m a Ferrell, and I’ll never stop fighting.
Even if it means destroying the man who once meant everything to me.
The Widow Maker is the second and final book of the Dark Vows duet. It is not a standalone book.
Heath used me for his own dark agenda.
Now, I’m back with the man who wants to destroy me, with no chance of breaking free.
Abused, beaten and destroyed, I’m done running.
But I’ll be damned before I accept my fate.
Because I’m a Ferrell, and I’ll never stop fighting.
Even if it means destroying the man who once meant everything to me.
The Widow Maker is the second and final book of the Dark Vows duet. It is not a standalone book.
239 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2021
56 people are currently reading
315 people want to read
About the author
Isabella Starling
103 books2,654 followersUSA Today bestselling author Isabella Starling describes her books with three words: dark, dirty and forbidden.
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VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE!
https://amzn.to/3lhl4R5
VISIT ME ON FACEBOOK!
https://www.facebook.com/authorisabel...
FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER!
https://twitter.com/authorstarling
SUBSCRIBE TO MY NEWSLETTER!
https://subscribepage.com/isabellasta...
And don't forget to join my Facebook group Good Girls Love Bad Boys to be the first to see my new covers, receive ARC opportunities & connect with myself and other readers! We do tons of giveaways and author takeovers too.
Click on the pic below to join!
CHECK OUT MY INSTAGRAM!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
October 30, 2021
Have I been stalking both the authors for the release of this book? Yes, I have. I was dying to know what would happen in this conclusion. Let me say this, Mind blown.
As with any dark romance, I always say read your trigger warnings. Like my review for book one, this book is not for everyone, and that is okay. On my dark scale: Because I did cringe a time or two and since I want my books darker the better. It’s dark gray with one black scene. Going in, I know some parts were going to be brutal. The authors didn’t hold back on the details. Not one iota.
Book two starts where book one left off. And I was shocked at who took Rain. Talk about a twist!!! From this moment on, it's action pact and pay close attention.
Since Rain’s disappearance, Heath becomes completely unhinged and wants blood. Heath finds himself teaming up with someone he least expected to.
In the meantime, he uses his vises and the one closest to him worries about his health. I was too. My heart broke for them both.
Book two ends in something I would have never expected, and it does leave a perfect hand-off to the next series. Overall, I enjoyed the book and plot. I still have one question. Yet, I feel like it will be answered in the next series. Furthermore, I look forward to the further collaboration of both authors.
As with any dark romance, I always say read your trigger warnings. Like my review for book one, this book is not for everyone, and that is okay. On my dark scale: Because I did cringe a time or two and since I want my books darker the better. It’s dark gray with one black scene. Going in, I know some parts were going to be brutal. The authors didn’t hold back on the details. Not one iota.
Book two starts where book one left off. And I was shocked at who took Rain. Talk about a twist!!! From this moment on, it's action pact and pay close attention.
Since Rain’s disappearance, Heath becomes completely unhinged and wants blood. Heath finds himself teaming up with someone he least expected to.
In the meantime, he uses his vises and the one closest to him worries about his health. I was too. My heart broke for them both.
Book two ends in something I would have never expected, and it does leave a perfect hand-off to the next series. Overall, I enjoyed the book and plot. I still have one question. Yet, I feel like it will be answered in the next series. Furthermore, I look forward to the further collaboration of both authors.
July 16, 2023
Update:
I can’t even complain. I knew exactly what I was getting myself into.
************
I don't know why I'm doing this to myself after the disaster that was book one *sigh*
I can’t even complain. I knew exactly what I was getting myself into.
************
I don't know why I'm doing this to myself after the disaster that was book one *sigh*
March 14, 2022
Heath and Rain’s love story may be ending but the future for this world is only beginning.
🚨STOP, this is NOT a standalone. You MUST have read The Bride Thief and The Wife Breaker first 🚨
Seeing Heath and Rain continue to fight for each other was near heartbreaking at times. These two have struggled from the beginning and nothing was ever easy. And right when they think happiness is in their future and in sight, Xavier yet again rocks their world.
Xander stole the show in this one. I absolutely cannot wait for more from this mysterious man. He’s a cross between Heath and Xavier. He’s someone you never want to meet in the dark unless you’re on his side.
𝓋𝓍𝒽𝑒𝓍𝓃 𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹𝓈
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🚨STOP, this is NOT a standalone. You MUST have read The Bride Thief and The Wife Breaker first 🚨
Seeing Heath and Rain continue to fight for each other was near heartbreaking at times. These two have struggled from the beginning and nothing was ever easy. And right when they think happiness is in their future and in sight, Xavier yet again rocks their world.
Xander stole the show in this one. I absolutely cannot wait for more from this mysterious man. He’s a cross between Heath and Xavier. He’s someone you never want to meet in the dark unless you’re on his side.
𝓋𝓍𝒽𝑒𝓍𝓃 𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹𝓈
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April 7, 2022
All the men in this book were gross and abusive.
Heath talked a big talk in his head but was basically a drug addled loser who became Xavier’s little bitch and agreed to give him what he wanted in the end.
Rain was horribly abused by every male in this book. Her revenge should have been a bullet between all their eyes. Instead, she too agreed to sell her future child down the road.
And the idea of more books in this series .. pairing Xavier with Tallulah … her mothers rapist and abuser. That’s just next level fucking disgusting.
Heath talked a big talk in his head but was basically a drug addled loser who became Xavier’s little bitch and agreed to give him what he wanted in the end.
Rain was horribly abused by every male in this book. Her revenge should have been a bullet between all their eyes. Instead, she too agreed to sell her future child down the road.
And the idea of more books in this series .. pairing Xavier with Tallulah … her mothers rapist and abuser. That’s just next level fucking disgusting.
November 3, 2021
MY RATING: 1*
RELEASE DATE: 29 October 2021
CLIFFHANGER: No
ARC was kindly provided for an honest review
I really tried to like this book. I really did. It had potential. A great deal of it, but honestly if I could give it half a star I would. Even then it would be just to say I've read it.
What the hell happened between the last book and this one? Book one wasn’t exactly great either but fuck, how could it possibly get any worse? Somehow it got worse. I am so disappointed I can’t even deal.
First of all, the heroin is the dumbest bitch I’ve ever come across is any book since I started reading for pleasure. Her emotional changes gave me whiplash. She would say on one sentence how she refused to be broken and not ready for anything sexual, then literally 2 sentences later “the heat at her center” would be so overwhelming she needs to be dicked ASAP
She story on the other hand was shit. Characters seemingly appeared and disappeared all willy nilly.
Seriously?
Firstly, that shit is not sexy. I don’t know in what universe the author thought that a reader would see that I think its sexy.
Secondly, hello! Vaginal infection!
In summary
but hey, everybody else rated it 5*. Maybe I just got the wrong copy
Want to read
July 20, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/20/2022)! 🎁
October 30, 2021
The Widow Maker takes us on a journey into the craziness that is Heath and Rain and the complications with Xavier.
This story was intense and chaotic at times, but also such a deliciously tantalizing story.
I absolutely loved this book!
This story was intense and chaotic at times, but also such a deliciously tantalizing story.
I absolutely loved this book!
November 6, 2021
After the heartwrenching cliffie of Wife Breaker, The Widow Maker picks right back up with the darkness and intrigue as Rain is kidnapped by a man both mysterious and familiar, while Heath is left wounded trying to recapture his love.
Oh man, is this book dark and painful. I know I say beware of triggers in many reviews- but this is one where I’d really tread lightly. There are so many triggers it’s hard to even list them- and graphic and detailed descriptions of them too. Dub-con, non-con, rape, murder, other abuse, drug. And it really breaks our characters in the process of them trying to find a path to peace. Heath is submerged in his darkness, and Rain is left trying to pick up the pieces. But they don’t have a fairytale type of love story- it’s the furthest from it. And our narrative makes that clear in how much they face, and just how permanent the scars of their path to being together will be.
It’s a fast paced, high adrenaline read from start to finish, and I enjoyed it a lot. I do wish we had a bit of a clearer/cleaner HEA, but I know there are more books with different characters that will perhaps assure me of the happy, and answer some loose ends.
Oh man, is this book dark and painful. I know I say beware of triggers in many reviews- but this is one where I’d really tread lightly. There are so many triggers it’s hard to even list them- and graphic and detailed descriptions of them too. Dub-con, non-con, rape, murder, other abuse, drug. And it really breaks our characters in the process of them trying to find a path to peace. Heath is submerged in his darkness, and Rain is left trying to pick up the pieces. But they don’t have a fairytale type of love story- it’s the furthest from it. And our narrative makes that clear in how much they face, and just how permanent the scars of their path to being together will be.
It’s a fast paced, high adrenaline read from start to finish, and I enjoyed it a lot. I do wish we had a bit of a clearer/cleaner HEA, but I know there are more books with different characters that will perhaps assure me of the happy, and answer some loose ends.
October 30, 2021
This book takes place immediately after the cliffhanger of The Wife Breaker.
Rain is captured and put on a speed boat with a man who looks identical to her psychotic husband, but because this man didn’t attempt to kill her, she knew it wasn’t her husband. Xander is the new mystery man, and Rain is contemplating who he is in relation to her husband since they look very similar. So, who is Xander and what does he want with Rain?
Heath, Rain’s beloved, is shot and nursing a wound. His only goal is to get Rain back, so he can protect her from her murderous husband, with whom Heath thinks she is with. Does Heath succeed?
There was a lot going on this book - murder, submission, the breaking down of a human being, hostage situations, abuse, drugs. Heath was put through the ringer and now pays the price in the aftermath. At times, he is cruel and hands out punishment to whoever enters his sight line. Rain has to keep him leashed as best as she can, and sometimes she can’t do it by herself. And, at times, I felt bad for her. She just wanted a quiet life with Heath, where they could have their fairytale romance.
In regards to the story, you’re not given a breather. There’s a lot going on at all times and I really enjoyed that. This is a book where the quiet moments make you nervous and you don’t want to embrace them because you know something bad is on the horizon. The story is about rival cartels and there were some scenes in this book that were significant to that fact.
Overall, a good series. Some scenes are going to stick with you after, for sure.
**Please check triggers. Not for the faint of heart**
Rain is captured and put on a speed boat with a man who looks identical to her psychotic husband, but because this man didn’t attempt to kill her, she knew it wasn’t her husband. Xander is the new mystery man, and Rain is contemplating who he is in relation to her husband since they look very similar. So, who is Xander and what does he want with Rain?
Heath, Rain’s beloved, is shot and nursing a wound. His only goal is to get Rain back, so he can protect her from her murderous husband, with whom Heath thinks she is with. Does Heath succeed?
There was a lot going on this book - murder, submission, the breaking down of a human being, hostage situations, abuse, drugs. Heath was put through the ringer and now pays the price in the aftermath. At times, he is cruel and hands out punishment to whoever enters his sight line. Rain has to keep him leashed as best as she can, and sometimes she can’t do it by herself. And, at times, I felt bad for her. She just wanted a quiet life with Heath, where they could have their fairytale romance.
In regards to the story, you’re not given a breather. There’s a lot going on at all times and I really enjoyed that. This is a book where the quiet moments make you nervous and you don’t want to embrace them because you know something bad is on the horizon. The story is about rival cartels and there were some scenes in this book that were significant to that fact.
Overall, a good series. Some scenes are going to stick with you after, for sure.
**Please check triggers. Not for the faint of heart**
November 4, 2021
I truly enjoyed this duet.
This is book two in the Dark Vows Duet, please be sure to read The Wife Breaker before reading this book. With the odds stacked against them, will Heath and Rain be able to get their HEA? Only one way to find out and that is to dive in and start reading this excellent dark forced marriage cartel romance. This is a great duet, however I will warn you that it will leave you wanting more and that will come in the form of The Kingpin's Property trilogy. (Which is a work in progress at this time.)
This is book two in the Dark Vows Duet, please be sure to read The Wife Breaker before reading this book. With the odds stacked against them, will Heath and Rain be able to get their HEA? Only one way to find out and that is to dive in and start reading this excellent dark forced marriage cartel romance. This is a great duet, however I will warn you that it will leave you wanting more and that will come in the form of The Kingpin's Property trilogy. (Which is a work in progress at this time.)
November 4, 2021
This was a fantastic conclusion for this duet ! This book is dark it’s full of crazy twists and turns the writing is so good I’m telling you heed the trigger warnings because this book is full of triggers but it’s a amazing story and I highly recommend to all dark lovers!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 2, 2021
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
Heath used me for his own dark agenda. Now, I'm back with the man who wants to destroy me, with no chance of breaking free. Abused, beaten and destroyed, I'm done running. But I'll be damned before I accept my fate. Because I'm a Farrell, and I'll never stop fighting. Even if it means destroying the man who once meant everything to me.
This is the second and final book in the Dark Vows Duet from Isabella Starling and Kendall Hawkins. You need to read The Wife Breaker before you dive in to this one or you are going to be lost. This is also a dark romance so it might hold some triggers for some people so you will want to heed them. The Widow Maker picks up right where the Wife Breaker left off. This is also the story of Rain and Heath. A complication for them is Xander and you will understand it all when you read the books. We pick back up with Rain kidnapped and thrown on a speed boat with a man who looks just exactly liker her psychotic husband. I don't even know that I would call the man psychotic he is way past that in my opinion. The only clue she really has that it is not her husband is that he doesn't try to kill her. This is where you will meet Xander and begs the question who exactly is he in relation to her husband and what in the world does he want with her. Then we have Heath who is nursing his wounds and is on a mission to get his Rain back. This is a man who is going to protect her from her husband at all costs. As you can see there is a lot going on in this book and I promise you, you will get your answers and you will not be able to put this book down. I don't want to say to much about this book and give something away at all. I have been waiting patiently for this book since reading The Wife Breaker and I must say it was well worth waiting for. If you love your dark romances and I sure do then you will not want to miss this book. As much as I read dark romances not to much bothers me but I will say that a scene or two in these books will probably go with me to the grave as I will never forget them.
Heath used me for his own dark agenda. Now, I'm back with the man who wants to destroy me, with no chance of breaking free. Abused, beaten and destroyed, I'm done running. But I'll be damned before I accept my fate. Because I'm a Farrell, and I'll never stop fighting. Even if it means destroying the man who once meant everything to me.
This is the second and final book in the Dark Vows Duet from Isabella Starling and Kendall Hawkins. You need to read The Wife Breaker before you dive in to this one or you are going to be lost. This is also a dark romance so it might hold some triggers for some people so you will want to heed them. The Widow Maker picks up right where the Wife Breaker left off. This is also the story of Rain and Heath. A complication for them is Xander and you will understand it all when you read the books. We pick back up with Rain kidnapped and thrown on a speed boat with a man who looks just exactly liker her psychotic husband. I don't even know that I would call the man psychotic he is way past that in my opinion. The only clue she really has that it is not her husband is that he doesn't try to kill her. This is where you will meet Xander and begs the question who exactly is he in relation to her husband and what in the world does he want with her. Then we have Heath who is nursing his wounds and is on a mission to get his Rain back. This is a man who is going to protect her from her husband at all costs. As you can see there is a lot going on in this book and I promise you, you will get your answers and you will not be able to put this book down. I don't want to say to much about this book and give something away at all. I have been waiting patiently for this book since reading The Wife Breaker and I must say it was well worth waiting for. If you love your dark romances and I sure do then you will not want to miss this book. As much as I read dark romances not to much bothers me but I will say that a scene or two in these books will probably go with me to the grave as I will never forget them.
November 7, 2021
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 4.5/5 Stars
POV : Dual
Cliffhanger : None
Hero : Heath
Heroine : Rain
Pace of the story : Moderate
Angst Rating : 6/10
Heat Rating : 6/10
Triggers Involved : Very Dark , Kidnapping , Sexual Slavery , Non Con Scenes
Overall Opinion :
Heath and Rain are back! I don't think I have ever read a story that is more twisted and angsty than this one. These two can't catch a break and they seem to have trouble from every freaking end. I couldn't stop praying for them to have their happy ending and I am so excited to announce that yes, they will have that and so much more in this one. However the path is not easy, not easy at all. It's twisted and sometimes tough to read but that is what makes their victory so amazing!
Heath and Rain have always wanted each other but fate played them and now they are back with their demons. Rain is back in her hell and this time there is no one to save her. The same is for Heath. He had to battle his demons, all the while trying to save the woman whom he loves and will do anything for him. This book was of average length so I read it in a single sitting. Definitely recommending this book to all the dark romance loving people out there!!
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October 31, 2021
Rain has been taken by another man and forced into sexual slavery. Heath is determined to find her, no matter how he battles his drug addiction. This story starts right where the first book left off. This is a dark read with plenty of triggers for some readers. Non-con, f/f, no voluntary cheating by the couple. Be prepared for a wild ride.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am leaving a review.
December 30, 2021
Okay, so this book killed me.
It was emotionally draining on both sides. It starts practically where book one left off with Rain being kidnapped by who Heath believes was Xavier, her husband. Rain has now been taken from Heath by another man. She's being tortured for her lies. Heath and Xavier, despite their hate for each other are now forced to work together to get the girl they have in common.
Rain and Heath have so much to work through. His addiction has progressively become worse and a problem between them. Rain tries so hard yo make it work between them despite this but there is only so much this relationship can take. But things will only to continue to progress into the worse with Xavier's story (coming up next).
March 14, 2022
Dark and Twisted
This is the final book and you must read the Prequel and book one to understand what is occurring throughout the story.
I have to admit I’m shocked at the ending and the deal they made all those years ago as I believe from knowing Heath during this story he would have killed Xavier before he allowed the visits or to honour the deal. Rain knows what Xavier plans to do to Tallulah so everything in me screams her and Heath wouldn’t allow that to happen.
I get that the author now has a series for Xavier, Tallulah & Xander but that story could have been with anyone else it’s just creepy as Xavier has to be approaching 60 for gods sake 🤮
Other than that creepy ending the rest of the book was as dark and twisted as the other two but what Xander did to Rain was just vile.
I want to know why Rex was never mentioned to Heath or Xavier as he had to be a spy in Xavier’s cartel if he called Xander boss but he wasn’t even mentioned after playing such a crucial role is outing her.
Heath was very unlikable during his drug taking at times especially that time he was saying he couldn’t stop even if she used her safe word, that’s not how a dominant should ever treat his submissive.
I know they both had their own demons and Heath was a pig when he was going through withdrawal however getting him back to the decent man he was then this was needed and the drugs had to go.
I would only recommend this duet and prequel if you don’t have triggers as there is rape, abuse and murder and I did find myself cringing a few times as some scenes were vile but if none of this triggers you and you enjoy a darker type of hero & heroine then this is right up your street.
This is the final book and you must read the Prequel and book one to understand what is occurring throughout the story.
I have to admit I’m shocked at the ending and the deal they made all those years ago as I believe from knowing Heath during this story he would have killed Xavier before he allowed the visits or to honour the deal. Rain knows what Xavier plans to do to Tallulah so everything in me screams her and Heath wouldn’t allow that to happen.
I get that the author now has a series for Xavier, Tallulah & Xander but that story could have been with anyone else it’s just creepy as Xavier has to be approaching 60 for gods sake 🤮
Other than that creepy ending the rest of the book was as dark and twisted as the other two but what Xander did to Rain was just vile.
I want to know why Rex was never mentioned to Heath or Xavier as he had to be a spy in Xavier’s cartel if he called Xander boss but he wasn’t even mentioned after playing such a crucial role is outing her.
Heath was very unlikable during his drug taking at times especially that time he was saying he couldn’t stop even if she used her safe word, that’s not how a dominant should ever treat his submissive.
I know they both had their own demons and Heath was a pig when he was going through withdrawal however getting him back to the decent man he was then this was needed and the drugs had to go.
I would only recommend this duet and prequel if you don’t have triggers as there is rape, abuse and murder and I did find myself cringing a few times as some scenes were vile but if none of this triggers you and you enjoy a darker type of hero & heroine then this is right up your street.
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October 30, 2021THE WIDOW MAKER IS NOW LIVE AND IN KINDLE UNLIMITED
Dark cartel romance with forced marriage themes.
Download or buy on Amazon 👉 https://geni.us/TheWidowMaker
EXCERPT:
“Why am I getting punished?”
“Because you should know better than to piss me off by now, Sunshine. At this point, I’m just going to assume you fucking love it when I hurt you. You little pain slut.”
The guard returns, along with several of the men I recognize from the den. I swallow thickly, knowing already that whatever is going to follow won’t be easy for me to take.
“Why’d you call us here?” Phoenix asks Heath. “Thought we weren’t allowed to look at your property.”
“Damn right you’re not,” Heath hisses. “Think of this as a way for me to show you what you can never have. Enjoy the show.”
He cracks the belt through the air, making me cry out in a desperate whimper. I don’t want to beg, but the pleading words are eager to escape my lips to find his forgiveness.
© Kendall Hawkins, Isabella Starling, 2021
Dark Vows Duet
#0.5 The Bride Thief
#1 The Wife Breaker
#2 The Widow Maker
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November 3, 2021
This is the second and final book in the Dark Vows duet. I am always leary about duets. Most of the time the second book comes across as an after thought. Not near as good as the first. My conviction held true for this one. The first book had me invested in these characters. I was cheering for Rain and Heath all the way. And then it ended in that huge cliffie. Yep--i was ready to jump in to this book.
So what went wrong? I am still on team Heath and Rain. But Heath, man, he let me down. I know he has his demons but I really wanted him to go guns blazing and fight for the girl. The whole story line was just kind of flat. Of course and HEA isn't necessary to love a book, but this one just kind of road it out until the end.
The other issue I had was the violence toward Rain. The disclaimer in the front of the book says beware of the darkness. Please take head of that for this story. It seemed more character development and laying the groundwork for future action when presented in the first book. My thoughts on this book--there was gratuitous violence. Is that a thing?? I just didn't feel it moved the story forward. And felt that even more strongly when Rain was seemingly back to normal after a couple of weeks. It was a head scratcher for me.
I have no interest whatsoever in Xavier's book. I can't imagine any redemption for this man. And I am a champion of the broken hero. But, nope....not going there with him.
Not a duet for everyone. If you liked book one, I would guess you may agree that book 2 falls short. Not for me this time.
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
So what went wrong? I am still on team Heath and Rain. But Heath, man, he let me down. I know he has his demons but I really wanted him to go guns blazing and fight for the girl. The whole story line was just kind of flat. Of course and HEA isn't necessary to love a book, but this one just kind of road it out until the end.
The other issue I had was the violence toward Rain. The disclaimer in the front of the book says beware of the darkness. Please take head of that for this story. It seemed more character development and laying the groundwork for future action when presented in the first book. My thoughts on this book--there was gratuitous violence. Is that a thing?? I just didn't feel it moved the story forward. And felt that even more strongly when Rain was seemingly back to normal after a couple of weeks. It was a head scratcher for me.
I have no interest whatsoever in Xavier's book. I can't imagine any redemption for this man. And I am a champion of the broken hero. But, nope....not going there with him.
Not a duet for everyone. If you liked book one, I would guess you may agree that book 2 falls short. Not for me this time.
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 27, 2022
After Rain has been kidnapped, Heath goes berserk. He is convinced that his uncle Xavier has come back to get his wife back and is afraid of what he might do to her. But it wasn't Xavier this time, it was his brother Xander, who is almost as crazy and cruel as Xavier.
Xander tortures Rain after realizing who she really is and for lying to him.
When Heath gets her back it takes him a while to get Rain back to her normal self, but Heath's drug problems may end their happiness forever.
I'm dying to know what will happen in the end with Xavier, Xander, Rain, Heath...
Liberato will also have his book and his HEA?
Of course this duet has been one of the darkest I've read in some time and I loved it.
Highly recommended.
Xander tortures Rain after realizing who she really is and for lying to him.
When Heath gets her back it takes him a while to get Rain back to her normal self, but Heath's drug problems may end their happiness forever.
I'm dying to know what will happen in the end with Xavier, Xander, Rain, Heath...
Liberato will also have his book and his HEA?
Of course this duet has been one of the darkest I've read in some time and I loved it.
Highly recommended.
October 29, 2021
The Widow Maker is the second book in the Dark Vows duet, and it's just as twisted as the first one. I would highly recommend this duet to anyone like me, who loves dark romance, and has absolutely no triggers.
These characters endure a lot!
I'll list a few below, but trust me when I say there's so much more.
❤ Kidnapping
🖤 Extreme Violence
❤ Drug Addiction
The conclusion to Heath and Rain’s story is bittersweet, in my opinion.
They do get their HEA, but it's complicated to put it lightly.
I loveeeeed the sneak peek at the end, and I'm dying to read the Kingpin’s Trilogy.
These characters endure a lot!
I'll list a few below, but trust me when I say there's so much more.
❤ Kidnapping
🖤 Extreme Violence
❤ Drug Addiction
The conclusion to Heath and Rain’s story is bittersweet, in my opinion.
They do get their HEA, but it's complicated to put it lightly.
I loveeeeed the sneak peek at the end, and I'm dying to read the Kingpin’s Trilogy.
October 30, 2021
This picks up where book one left off and you must read the first book before diving into this. Please know that this is on the darker side with a moment that even though nothing bothers me I was like woah that just happened but I enjoyed every part of this book. Rain and Heath's story hooked me completely
December 27, 2021
2.5⭐
Me recuerda a otros libros que he leído con la misma temática, pero el final...
Eso sí no me lo esperaba, no era más fácil matar al tío y ya 😣
Me recuerda a otros libros que he leído con la misma temática, pero el final...
Eso sí no me lo esperaba, no era más fácil matar al tío y ya 😣
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2021
Ugh. I should have finished my review for the first half of the duet before finishing the second book, because the way this second book went off the rails colors my impression of the whole series.
It feels like there were some personality transplants towards the end of this. Specifically, after Heath got Rain back from Xander, Uncle Xavier’s twin.
Between Heath and Rain:
Before Xander abducted Rain it seemed like Heath wanted a (lifestyle, not bedroom only) Master-slave dynamic, to break his girl, to push her limits, delighting in the fact that she was a pain slut. Rain just wanted to be free, though Heath’s (metaphorical) golden collar was holding more and more appeal. But the end has them a balanced couple (outside the bedroom) with some kinky bedroom activities.
And how was Xander’s treatment worse than Xavier’s? Because Rain certainly acted more broken from weeks with Xander as opposed to years with Xavier. Was her idle with Heath enough to kill her fighting spirit?
Then there is Xavier killing all of Heath’s men, abducting him, only to offer a flag of truce when Rain shows up to get him. And the “give me your first born”. Ewwww. Since when would either of them calmly raise their child with that hanging over their heads? And it’s clear from the preview, they do just that.
And what about Xander? His entire existence is a loose thread.
I don't know. I was just completely dissatisfied.
It feels like there were some personality transplants towards the end of this. Specifically, after Heath got Rain back from Xander, Uncle Xavier’s twin.
Between Heath and Rain:
Before Xander abducted Rain it seemed like Heath wanted a (lifestyle, not bedroom only) Master-slave dynamic, to break his girl, to push her limits, delighting in the fact that she was a pain slut. Rain just wanted to be free, though Heath’s (metaphorical) golden collar was holding more and more appeal. But the end has them a balanced couple (outside the bedroom) with some kinky bedroom activities.
And how was Xander’s treatment worse than Xavier’s? Because Rain certainly acted more broken from weeks with Xander as opposed to years with Xavier. Was her idle with Heath enough to kill her fighting spirit?
Then there is Xavier killing all of Heath’s men, abducting him, only to offer a flag of truce when Rain shows up to get him. And the “give me your first born”. Ewwww. Since when would either of them calmly raise their child with that hanging over their heads? And it’s clear from the preview, they do just that.
And what about Xander? His entire existence is a loose thread.
I don't know. I was just completely dissatisfied.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2021
I just kept hoping Rain would eventually rage out and kill every single man who hurt her (which was like every single one in the series). I like dark romance but this one for whatever reason I couldn’t stand.
October 28, 2021
This is the conclusion to the the Dark Vows duet. It picks up precisely where book one leaves us. This is a truly dark and intense read. This book is not for the faint of heart. Dark romance is my preferred genre and this had me squirming a few times.
This book takes a decidedly darker turn with Rain being held captive. Her new captor has no qualms about hurting her. The anxiety practically pours off the page with Heath frantic and desperate to find her. He finds an unlikely ally in his quest to get her back.
It’s still not sunshine and roses once he finds her. We saw Heath’s addiction in book one and it spirals out of control here. Rain is the unluckiest heroine, I swear. She’s determined to help him overcome his addiction and they still have her ex out there to deal with. There’s so much going on you won’t be bored for a single page.
Story 4/5, Heat 2.5/5, Darkness 3.75/5, Angst 3/5
Trope: cartel, captive, second chance
Medium burn, Heath and Rain get back to the bedroom at 47%. However, there is non-con in the first half of the book that isn’t done by the H, but her new captors. I can typically handle that but I’ll admit that these scenes were difficult even for me.
No condoms, no virgins, former manwhore H, heavy non-con from someone who isn’t the H - includes F/F content, bondage, impact punishment, M/s dynamic, forced exhibitionism, forced punishment, heavy drug use and addiction, lots of violence and death, some push away from both (h - ptsd from kidnapping and H - drug addiction), no OW drama, there is separation as h is kidnapped- probably lasted a week or so, the h is rescued at 40%. No consensual cheating, no cliffhanger and HEA for couple (mostly, anyway).
Safety - this has on page descriptive non-con from when the h was captured by enemy. It includes F/F and multiple men - complete non-con.
It’s got heavy drug use and addiction on page and a good amount of cartel violence and death.
The book ends with an HEA for couple but sets up for the next connected series which also looks awesome.
If you don’t take issue with these things I highly recommend this for an amazing dark read, just go in prepared!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book takes a decidedly darker turn with Rain being held captive. Her new captor has no qualms about hurting her. The anxiety practically pours off the page with Heath frantic and desperate to find her. He finds an unlikely ally in his quest to get her back.
It’s still not sunshine and roses once he finds her. We saw Heath’s addiction in book one and it spirals out of control here. Rain is the unluckiest heroine, I swear. She’s determined to help him overcome his addiction and they still have her ex out there to deal with. There’s so much going on you won’t be bored for a single page.
Story 4/5, Heat 2.5/5, Darkness 3.75/5, Angst 3/5
Trope: cartel, captive, second chance
Medium burn, Heath and Rain get back to the bedroom at 47%. However, there is non-con in the first half of the book that isn’t done by the H, but her new captors. I can typically handle that but I’ll admit that these scenes were difficult even for me.
No condoms, no virgins, former manwhore H, heavy non-con from someone who isn’t the H - includes F/F content, bondage, impact punishment, M/s dynamic, forced exhibitionism, forced punishment, heavy drug use and addiction, lots of violence and death, some push away from both (h - ptsd from kidnapping and H - drug addiction), no OW drama, there is separation as h is kidnapped- probably lasted a week or so, the h is rescued at 40%. No consensual cheating, no cliffhanger and HEA for couple (mostly, anyway).
Safety - this has on page descriptive non-con from when the h was captured by enemy. It includes F/F and multiple men - complete non-con.
It’s got heavy drug use and addiction on page and a good amount of cartel violence and death.
The book ends with an HEA for couple but sets up for the next connected series which also looks awesome.
If you don’t take issue with these things I highly recommend this for an amazing dark read, just go in prepared!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 7, 2021
The Widow Maker: A Dark Forced Marriage Cartel Romance. Dark Vows Duet Book 2. This is the stunning conclusion to the twisted, dark and depraved Dark Vows Duet. The story picks up from the jaw-dropping cliffhanger where Rain has been abducted and thrown in a speed boat by an unknown assailant with a striking resembles to her sociopath husband. She soon realize that the man was not her husband because he did not tried to kill her, in fact he was Xavier twin brother Xander. Xander abducted Rain not knowing who she really was. The truth is Xander hates Xavier far more than Heath and once he learnt Rain true connection to his brother he made her life a living hell that she had never experienced before. Xander is savage is he doesn't have a qualms inflicting the worst kind of hurt on her. He's sadistic, violent, barbaric and cruel. Rain is put through harsh punishment, beatings, rapes, and abuse, mean while Heath is losing is mind because he as loss the love of his life second time. The ordeal cause him to dove deeper into his drug addiction. He knows he took her and as strike up deal with an unlikely ally. Rain is a fighter and survivor she endures some pretty inhumane, vile, and heinous treatment at the hands of these three men.
The Widow Maker was very gut wrenching, heart twisting, vengeance demanding, pain fill, hatred, violent lace, betrayal, enemies, loyalty, love and most prevalent of all the desire for revenge. There were so many mind bending surprises, debauchery, humiliations twists. It's raw, gritty, provocative and disturbing with drama and suspense. There's so many things going on in the story murder, violence, non-consensual, rape, drug use, and sex slavery. The storyline punches you in gut with complex characters. It was beautifully written, easy to follow and flow seamlessly from page to page. The authors grabs your attention with nonstop action and intrigue from the very beginning until the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Widow Maker was very gut wrenching, heart twisting, vengeance demanding, pain fill, hatred, violent lace, betrayal, enemies, loyalty, love and most prevalent of all the desire for revenge. There were so many mind bending surprises, debauchery, humiliations twists. It's raw, gritty, provocative and disturbing with drama and suspense. There's so many things going on in the story murder, violence, non-consensual, rape, drug use, and sex slavery. The storyline punches you in gut with complex characters. It was beautifully written, easy to follow and flow seamlessly from page to page. The authors grabs your attention with nonstop action and intrigue from the very beginning until the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 3, 2021
This is the second book in the Dark Vows Duet and picks up right where book one left off. As intense as I thought book 1 was, this threw me for a loop….. or maybe 5! There some shocking surprises and “WTF just happened!” moments. Be prepared to go into the dark shadows with this book.
Rain is caught in between some pretty powerful and dangerous men and while circumstances seemed dire previously, it gets even more ominous in this book. There is very little downtown in this book. By that I mean, there didn’t seem to be a moment where there wasn’t action or drama happening with these characters. It leaves your brain very little time to recover from the onslaught of dark moments that come one after the other. It’s sort of like you’re at the top of the rollercoaster about ready to fall for the entire book. Or, at least that’s what felt like to me! Others might find this to be different. Rain endures some pretty depraved actions by not only Xander and Xavier but, in a way Heath does as well. The difference with Heath is that she trusts him and seems to love him. She does the best she can in the darker moments, but she also has to resign herself to what might happen in order to survive. Heath… he’s definitely not your typical mc. He is fighting a lot of demons, past and present. I feel sort of bad for him at times and others not so much. But, one thing is for sure, he loves Rain. In his own way.
I think I said this about the prequel and The Wife Breaker: this duet is dark, even on my scale of dark romance, though it doesn’t mean I didn’t like it any less but, for those that might not, check the trigger warnings just in case!
**I received this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
Rain is caught in between some pretty powerful and dangerous men and while circumstances seemed dire previously, it gets even more ominous in this book. There is very little downtown in this book. By that I mean, there didn’t seem to be a moment where there wasn’t action or drama happening with these characters. It leaves your brain very little time to recover from the onslaught of dark moments that come one after the other. It’s sort of like you’re at the top of the rollercoaster about ready to fall for the entire book. Or, at least that’s what felt like to me! Others might find this to be different. Rain endures some pretty depraved actions by not only Xander and Xavier but, in a way Heath does as well. The difference with Heath is that she trusts him and seems to love him. She does the best she can in the darker moments, but she also has to resign herself to what might happen in order to survive. Heath… he’s definitely not your typical mc. He is fighting a lot of demons, past and present. I feel sort of bad for him at times and others not so much. But, one thing is for sure, he loves Rain. In his own way.
I think I said this about the prequel and The Wife Breaker: this duet is dark, even on my scale of dark romance, though it doesn’t mean I didn’t like it any less but, for those that might not, check the trigger warnings just in case!
**I received this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
November 2, 2021
I've been waiting for this concluding part to this series.....and it didn't disappoint. Like any Dark Romance this has triggers warnings, it's very very dark at times and didn't hold back on the abuse that Rain suffers with but I went in knowing full well about the triggers and yes they are dark but they are integral to the story.
This book starts off right where book one left off. We find out who took Rain and yes it's a twist I didn't see coming but wow is all I can say. So after Rain is kidnapped and taken, Heath is beside himself and wants blood so he teams up with Xavier the man you least expect, to get Rain back in one piece. When Rain is finally back in his arms she's been through so much as the hands of her kidnapper and it's brutal to read what she goes through, but she does come out the other side stronger. Heath has his troubles also with his drug addiction which is tough to read, my heart broke for both of them with what they have to endure. Will Heath get better for Rain and quit cold turkey? Will Rain ever be free of her husband Xavier and live the life she desperately wants with Heath?
All in all I've loved this series from start to finish and I'm looking forward to more from these two authors together
This book starts off right where book one left off. We find out who took Rain and yes it's a twist I didn't see coming but wow is all I can say. So after Rain is kidnapped and taken, Heath is beside himself and wants blood so he teams up with Xavier the man you least expect, to get Rain back in one piece. When Rain is finally back in his arms she's been through so much as the hands of her kidnapper and it's brutal to read what she goes through, but she does come out the other side stronger. Heath has his troubles also with his drug addiction which is tough to read, my heart broke for both of them with what they have to endure. Will Heath get better for Rain and quit cold turkey? Will Rain ever be free of her husband Xavier and live the life she desperately wants with Heath?
All in all I've loved this series from start to finish and I'm looking forward to more from these two authors together
November 8, 2021
Rain has been taken and Heath has to find her. But enemies are every where, and Heath must overcome his addiction, or face losing Rain forever.
I love the authors writing and book one was a complete hit for me. The author didn't shy away from gritty details or uncomfortable scenes and I loved that. Book two is no different, and the writing is still just as good.
My biggest issue with the plot is some of the scenes feel forced. The whole deal with Xander didn't make sense. He goes from not being like his brother to being exactly like him, from saying one thing and doing the opposite. His "punishment" for Rain didn't make sense at all and seemed like it was just added in order to get more steamy scenes into the book (not complaining, but if it doesn't make sense, what's the point?).
Heath and Rain have a tumultuous relationship at best, and some points it feels like he treats her worse than Xavier did. He says her loves her, but then switches up his attitude toward her. It's blamed on his addiction, but that only goes so far before it's just his personality.
All in all, I love the author and their writing, the plot was good, but didn't make sense at some points, and it needed work in some areas so everything flowed together better.
I love the authors writing and book one was a complete hit for me. The author didn't shy away from gritty details or uncomfortable scenes and I loved that. Book two is no different, and the writing is still just as good.
My biggest issue with the plot is some of the scenes feel forced. The whole deal with Xander didn't make sense. He goes from not being like his brother to being exactly like him, from saying one thing and doing the opposite. His "punishment" for Rain didn't make sense at all and seemed like it was just added in order to get more steamy scenes into the book (not complaining, but if it doesn't make sense, what's the point?).
Heath and Rain have a tumultuous relationship at best, and some points it feels like he treats her worse than Xavier did. He says her loves her, but then switches up his attitude toward her. It's blamed on his addiction, but that only goes so far before it's just his personality.
All in all, I love the author and their writing, the plot was good, but didn't make sense at some points, and it needed work in some areas so everything flowed together better.
November 11, 2021
Twists and turns galore!
The Widow Maker is the second and final installment in the Dark Vows Duet and picks exactly where book #1 left.
In the predicament Rain finds herself in, kidnaped and captive of someone very familiar yet unknown (the very first twist), Heath doesn't know very well in which direction to aim, he's lost, confused and bearing the madness of addiction, while planning, strategizing against the obvious culprit as well as the better judgement of his men and specially L. Heath and Rain and Xavier are fighting against a big adversary, but between them too. And a joint effort is the best solution for the time being.
This is not a book for everyone and the authors were very attentive to the fact and alerted about the triggers. It's raw, gritty, gory, sometimes extremely sad, but passionate. It deals with heavy themes and addiction is a major item in this book, but so is the struggle, superation and love's conquest.
This tale ends with a HEA and another twist I would never have envisioned and certainly did not see coming, but I'm anxiously waiting for the next series with a lot of expectation!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.
The Widow Maker is the second and final installment in the Dark Vows Duet and picks exactly where book #1 left.
In the predicament Rain finds herself in, kidnaped and captive of someone very familiar yet unknown (the very first twist), Heath doesn't know very well in which direction to aim, he's lost, confused and bearing the madness of addiction, while planning, strategizing against the obvious culprit as well as the better judgement of his men and specially L. Heath and Rain and Xavier are fighting against a big adversary, but between them too. And a joint effort is the best solution for the time being.
This is not a book for everyone and the authors were very attentive to the fact and alerted about the triggers. It's raw, gritty, gory, sometimes extremely sad, but passionate. It deals with heavy themes and addiction is a major item in this book, but so is the struggle, superation and love's conquest.
This tale ends with a HEA and another twist I would never have envisioned and certainly did not see coming, but I'm anxiously waiting for the next series with a lot of expectation!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.
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